6 Ways to Keep Writing While Being a (Mostly) Full-Time Parent

Maybe you're a (mostly) full-time parent like me, juggling your desire to create with the pressures of raising a tiny, adorable, dress-loving Godzilla rampaging through your living room. You have the drive but you don't know how to make time. Just when you get the best ideas, you're sprinting into the hallway to stop your child from smearing blueberries on the wall or coloring on the cat. By the time bedtime rolls around, your energy is zapped and your muse is firmly asleep.

I get it. I know it's hard. I'm living proof. But you can still make time for you. Here are 6 steps for writing that I've found helpful in my own crazy-busy, parent-filled days. I hope they help you too.

1. Make Yourself a Priority

   You can be in the thick of raising a toddler but still prioritize your creativity. Making the decision to do so is the first step. To start, it can be as simple as saying, I'm making myself a priority. If you can visualize yourself creating again and make a promise to do it, you can make it a reality.

2. Use a Note-Taker

   If you get an epiphany in the middle of mealtime, playtime, etc, use a note-taker to record it. I prefer the Notes feature on my phone or, more often, I use my Kindle Scribe. The tablet has notebooks you can switch between and jot down your thoughts, notes, or stories. I've used it for several years and with it I've completed two of my novels. It's lightweight, portable, and able to be converted in a Word doc or a PDF. If those methods aren't your thing, use a voice memo app to get your ideas down and write them out later.

   
   

3. Set a Goal

   Setting a goal is a great path to success. It motivates you, drives you forward, and puts a grin on your face when it's done. Start small, such as by writing 100 words a day or twice a week. Gradually, and as your kids get older, you can extend the time period or word count. Remember, any accomplishment is progress, so congratulate yourself for the small wins!

   
   

4. Use a Timer

   I've written about writing sprints before, and using a timer is a great way to accomplish one. Start with 5 minutes. Then put pen to paper or hands to keyboard and write. Whatever comes out, go with it. At the end of 5 minutes, you might be surprised how much you've accomplished.

   
   

5. Subscribe to Podcasts

   Learn the ins and outs of your craft--and stay connected to it--by listening to podcasts. Writer-focused ones I enjoy are:

   • Writing Excuses

   • Manuscript Academy

   • The Shit No One Tells You About Writing

   • Writerly

6. Join a Writing Group

   Writers love community, and one of the best communities out there for writing motivation and accountability is . . . a writing group! There are many of them in cities large and small across the country. Here are some good spots to find some:

   • Meetup

   • Facebook

   • Local libraries

   • Coffee shops

   • Community centers

     
     

Whether or not you're (mostly) full-time parenting, know that you're not far away from accessing your creative well again. Taking small steps can lead to big gains. Try one of these steps, or all of them. You might be surprised by the results!